ICMR BULLETIN VOL. 22-No. 1-JANUARY-1992
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- ICMR BULLETIN VOL. 22-No. 1-JANUARY-1992
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ISSN 0377-4910
January, 1992
Vol.22, No.l
INDIAN COUNCIL OF MEDICAL RESEARCH :
Extramural A ctivities
The primary aim of promoting research in, the
country in priority areas of biomedical research is
achieved by ICMR through intramural as well as
extramural- research. Over the decades, the scope of
extramural research as well as strategies used have
been expanded by the Council.
(1)
Communicable diseases (including viral diseases,
diarrhoeal diseases, tuberculosis, leprosy,
malaria, filariasis, kala-azar, vector control etc.)
(2)
Reproductive biology and fertility control.
(3)
Maternal and child health.
Extramural research is promoted by ICMR
through (i) Centres for Advanced Research in
identified research areas which are set-up around
existing expertise and infrastructure in selected
departments of Medical Colleges, Universities and
other non-ICMR Research Institutes; (ii) Task Force
studies which are national projects, centrally planned
and coordinated and usually implemented on a
multicentric basis. These projects are time-bound, with
a goal-oriented approach and clearly defined targets,
specific time frames and standardized and uniform
methodologies; (iii) open ended research on the basis of
applications for grants-in-aid voluntarily received
from scientists in non-ICMR Research Institutes
including Medical Colleges, Universities etc, located in
different parts of the country.
(4)
Nutrition and major metabolic disorders.
(5)
Health services research including alternative
health care systems.
(6)
Non-communicable diseases including degenerative diseases, cnacer, mental, gastroenterologi
cal, cardiovascular, neurological, ophthalmic
disorders, oral health, haematology, pathology
etc.
(7)
Occupational
problems.
(8)
Drug research (including medicinal plants and
indigenous/or traditional systems of medicine).
(9)
Financial support is provided by the Council for
research in all major areas related to health. Following
are the major priority areas for research identified by
the ICMR:
Basic medical research in disciplines like Ana
tomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, Immunology
Molecular biology, Genetics, etc.
Proposals for ad-hoc grants are received
throughout the year by the Council on a prescribed
and
environmental
Division of Publication & Information, ICMR, Neu Delhi - 11°
health
format which are carefully designed by the Council
(and modified from time to time). The proposals
received for extramural funding are reviewed by
various Project Review Committees (PRCs) in
different disciplines which meet at least twice a year.
These projects are also reviewed by subject specialists
before they are considered by the PRCs.
Any scientist working in a Medical College,
Research Institute, or University located anywhere in
the country including Government, semi-Government,
private or registered bodies can apply for financial
assistance for biomedical research.
The Task Force projects are formulated and
sponsored centrally, the areas of research. and
collaborating scientists being indentified by the
Council itself through its Task Forces and other Expert
Committees. Peer review is a strong feature of 1CMR
for both intramural and extramural research (Chart).
PEER REVIEW
Human resource development in biomedical
research is promoted by ICMR through various
schemes such as (i) Research Fellowships (ie Junior &
Senior Fellowships and Research Associateships);
(ii) Short-term Visiting Fellowships; (iii) Short-term
Research Studentships; (iv) Research Sabbatical; and
(v) A large number of Training Programmes and
Workshops conducted by ICMR Institutes and
Headquarters (on medical entomology, medical
virology, oncology, nutrition, occupational health,
haematology. endocrinology, clinical pharmacology
etc.).
Research Fellowships
Applications on a prescribed form are received
throughout the year. In addition to the fellowship
stipend, a suitable contingent grant is also provided by
the Council. For a Junior Research Fellowship, only
candidates with a Masters degree who have cleared the
national tests (such as the CSIR/ UGC test in the life
sciences category) are eligible to submit a proposal.
Short-term Visiting Fellowship
The objective of this scheme is to enable scientists
in non-ICMR Institutions and Medical Colleges,
engaged in biomedical research to update their skills,
learn the latest advanced techniques in the area
concerned by visiting a reputed Institute in India. The
SYSTEM
OF
ICMR
tenure of the fellowship is three months. The candidate
is provided travel and per diem expenses. Applications
are invited by advertisement in newspapers or by issue
of a circular to Medical Colleges/ Research Institututions.
Short-term Research Studentship
The Short-term Research Studentship
Programme was initiated in 1979 in order to promote
interest in and an aptitude for research among medical
undergraduates. The main aim of this scheme is to
provide an opportunity for medical undergradaates to
familiarise themselves with the basic principles of
research methodology and techniques, by being
actively associated, even for a short time, with the
ongoing research programmes. The Studentship is
awarded for two months during the summer vacation.
The value of .the fellowship is Rs.250/ p.m. Appli
cations for a limited number of thse studentships are
invited annually through a circular to the Medical
Colleges.
Research Sabbatical Scheme
The Research Sabbatical Scheme is aimed at
enabling senior teachers in Medical Colleges/
Institutions, who are usually over-burdened with
routine teaching duties, to devote their time entirely to
research for a limited period. This Scheme is intended
primarily for experienced scientists who are actively
engaged in research in the field of medicine and allied
sciences, who have attained some eminence in their
field of study and are anxious to devote their entire
attention for a limited period, so as to be able to pursue
the important leads already attained by them.
Under this Scheme, the salary and allowances
which the research worker would have drawn in
his/her permanent- post will be borne by the Council
for the duration of the Scheme which is normally
awarded for one year (with provision for extension by
one more year). A contingent grant of Rs.5,000/ p.a. is
also admissible. To assist the worker in his/her work,
one or two Research Fellows can also be provided.
The research worker may elect to work either at
the same Institute where he/*she is employed or in any
other Institution of his/her choice in India where
necessary facilities for research in the area concerned
are available.
Recently, this Scheme has also been extended to
intramural scientists of ICMR, to enable them to work
on a topic of their choice and to follow interesting leads
obtained in the course of their work.
Medical College or of Director/ Deputy Director in an
Institute of national status and have been actively
engaged in biomedical research of a high standard are
eligible for appointment as Emeritus Medical
Scientists. The Scheme is designed to assist those
senior scientists who are totally free to continue active
research in their own speciality. The duration of the
appointment of Emeritus Medical Scientist is for a
period of two years, with provision for extension upto
a maximum of three years, one year at a time, beyond
the first term of appointment. The Council's Emeritus
Medical Scientist will be paid an honorarium of
Rs.3500/ p.m. A contingent grant subject to a
maximum of Rs. 10,000/ p.a. is also admissible. This
Scheme is not regarded as conferment of an academic
distinction, but meant to promote research by capable
retired medical scientists. Only active working
scientists are selected as Emeritus Medical Scientists.
Applications are called for through advertise
ments in the newspapers, ICMR Bulletin as also
through circulars.
ICMR Awards & Prizes
To provide recognition to medical research of a high
order in the country, the Indian Council of Medical
Research awards the following prizes/awards each
year:
I.
Basanti Devi Amir Chand Prize (Value Rs. 1000/-)
for Research on any subject in Biomedical
Sciences.
2.
Dr. P.N. Raju Oration Award (Value Rs. 1000/-)
for Research on any subject in Biomedical
Sciences (to be notified each year).
3.
Sandoz Oration Award for Research in Cancer
(Value Rs. IO00/- and a Gold Medal).
4.
Dr. Y.S. Narayana Rao Oration Award (Value
Rs. 1000/-) for Research in the field of
Microbiology.
5.
Chaturvedi Kalawati Jagmohan Das Memorial
Award (Value Rs. 1000/- and a Gold Medal) for
Research in the field of Cardiovascular Diseases
(awarded in alternate years).
6
Dr. Kamaia Menon Medical Research Award
(Value Rs.5000/-) for Research in the field of
Internal Medicine and Paediatrics in alternate
years.
Emeritus Medical Scientist Scheme
The Council has a limited number of positions of
Emeritus Medical Scientists. Senior medical
teachers/scientists, who have retired or are about to
retire and who have held before their retirement, posts
of the status of a Professor/ Associate Professor in a
3
7.
Kshanika Oration Award (Value Rs. 1000/-) fora
Woman Scientist for/Research in any field of
Biomedical Sciences.
8.
Dr. M.K. Seshadri Prize (Value Rs.5000/- and a
Gold Medal) for the Practice of Community
Medicine.
9.
M.N. Sen Oration Award (Value Rs. 1000/-) for
the Practice of Medicine.
10.
JALMA Trust Fund Oration Award (Value
Rs.5000/- and a Gold Medal) in the field of
Leprosy.
22.
Lala Ram Chand Kandhari Award (Value
Rs.5000/-) for Research in the field of
Dermatology and Sexually Transmitted Diseases
(to be awarded in alternate years).
23.
Smt. Pushpa Sriramachari - Award (Value
Rs.2,500/- plus a Silver Medal) in the field of
Pathophysiology (clinical or experimental) for
scientists above 45 years of age only
24.
Dr. Prem Nath Wahi Award (Value Rs.5,000/-)
for Cytology and Preventive Oncology.
Prizes/A wards far Young Scientists (below 40 years)
11.
Dr. J.B. Srivastav Oration Award (Value
Rs.900/-) in the field of Virology (to be awarded
in alternate years).
25.
Four Shakuntala Amir Chand Prizes (Value
Rs.500/- each) for Research on any subject in
Medical Sciences.
12.
1CMR Prize for Biomedical Research for
Scientists belonging to under-priviledged
communities (Value Rs.5000/-).
26.
Raja Ravi Sher Singh of Kalsia Memorial Award
(Value Rs.900/-).
27.
13.
ICMR Prize for Biomedical Research
underdeveloped areas (Value Rs.5000/-).
Dr. V.N. Patwardhan Prize (Value Rs. 1000/-) in
Nutritional Sciences.
28.
14.
BGRC Silver Jubilee Oration Award (Value
Rs.2500/-) for Haematology and Immundhaematology.
Tilak Venkoba Rao Award (Value Rs. 1000/-) in
the fields of Psychological Medicine and
Reproductive Physiology in alternate years.
29.
15.
Smt. Swaran Kanta Dingley Oration Award
(Value Rs.5000/-) in the field of Reproductive
Biology..
Dr. T. Ramachandra Rao Award (Value
Rs. 1000/-) in the field of Medical Entomology.
30.
Dr. C.G.S. Iyer Oration Award (Value Rs. 1000/-)
in the field of Leprosy.
31.
Dr. Dharamvir Datta Memorial Oration Award
(Value Rs. 1000/-) in the field of Liver Diseases.
16.
in
Dr. M.O.T. lyenger Memorial award (Value
Rs.4000/-) in any of the fields of Malaria,
Filariasis, Plague or Medical Entomology.
17.
Prof. B.K. Aikat Oration Award (Value
Rs. 1000/-) in the field of Tropical Diseases.
32.
Prof. B.C. Srivastava Foundation Award (Value
Rs.2000/-) in the field of Community Medicine.
18.
Dr. Vidya Sagar Award (Value Rs.5000/-) in the
field of Mental Health (to be awarded in alternate
years).
33
Smt. Kamal Satbir Award (Value Rs.5000/-) in
the field of Respiratory Allergy and Chronic
Obstructive Lung Disease.
19.
Amrut-Mody Unichem Prize (Value Rs. 10,000/-)
for Research in the field of Cardiology &
Neurology and Gastroenterology in alternate
years.
34.
Major General Saheb Singh Sokhey Award
(Value Rs.6,000/-) in the field of Communicable
Diseases.
35.
20.
Amrut-Mody. Unichem Prize (Value Rs. 10,000/-)
for Research in the field of Maternal & Child
Health and Chest Diseases in alternate years.
Dr. H.B. Dingley Memorial Award, (Value
Rs.5,000/-) in the field of Paediatrics.
21. Chaturvedi Ghanshyam Das Jaigopal Memorial
Award (Value Rs. 1000/- and a Medal) for
Research in the field of Immunology (to be
awarded in alternate years).
4
Foreign Collaboration/ Assistance in Bio
medical Research
The ICMR coordinates the processing,
implementing and monitoring of biomedical research
programmes carried out under the auspices of either
bilateral agreements between India and countries such
as USA, UK, USSR, France, Germany etc. or as
assistance from international agencies such as WHO,
Ford Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation/ UNDP,
IDRC etc. Proposals are subjected to a peer review
process followed by clearance by the Government of
India. These programmes are intended to facilitate and
promote biomedical research in areas of mutual
interest to India and other countries/international
agencies, with transfer of technology being one of the
prime objectives. The facilities available and the
modalities of operation vary according to the country
or agency concerned. Other Departments/ Agencies of
the Government of India also deal with similar
programmes, foremost among them being the
Department of Science & Technology, Department of
Biotechnology, Council of Scientific and Industrial
Rssearch etc. The ICM R is consulted by these agencies
for the approval of proposals dealing with the
biomedical research for implementation. Information
on specific procedures for international collabo
ration/assistance in biomedical research is available
with the Indo-Foreign Programme Cell of the ICMR.
REGULATION OF CHORIONIC GONADOTROPIN IN
PRIMATE PLACENTA
Chorionic gonadotropin (CG) is a glycoprotein
hormone consisting of non-identical alpha and beta
subunits held together by non-covalent interaction,
produced by syncytiotrophoblasts of the placenta
during pregnancy in primates. Although its presence has
been shown in the sera of several non-human primates, it
has been well characterised only in the case of humans.
Available evidence indicates that the main function of
CG is to stimulate the steroidegenic function of the
corpus luteum of fertile cycle, until this function is taken
over completely by the placenta. Human chorionic
gonadotropin shares structural and functional
homology with pituitary luteinising hormone (LH)
which is known to be positively modulated by
hypothalamic gonadotropin releasing hormone
(GnRH) and negatively by gonadal steroids. In view of
the structural and functional homology, it is reasonable
to assume that CG synthesis and secretion may also be
subject to similar regulation in the placenta. Studies
were therefore initiated using both in vitro and in vivo
model systems to examine the possible factor(s)
involved in regulation of synthesis and secretion of CG
by primate placenta. As a first step, an in vitro first
trimester human placental villi incubation system was
standardised1. Its viability and functionality was
established by monitoring the 3H-thymidine
incorporation into DNA and also demonstrating the
synthesis of hCG using 35S-methionine and
immunoprecipitation of labelled hCG. These studies
revealed that the villi could be maintained in a
functional state for uptb 6-8 h. In addition, a solid phase
radioimmunoassay to estimate hCG was also
standardized. In order to be able to examine the effect of
addition of GnRH on CG secretion, the pre-requisite is
to examine whether placenta has specific receptors for
GnRH, as the first step in the action of a hormone is its
binding to the specific receptor and accordingly the
studies for the presence of GnRH receptors in placental
membrane revealed presence of specific binding sites for
GnRH though they were of low affinity compared to the
pituitary2. Using the in vitro placental mince system, it
was found that addition of GnRH and its analogues to
placental villi, incubated at 37° C resulted in a significant
increase in the immunoreactive CG in the medium1
and this could be inhibited by addition of high doses
of GnRH or GnRH antagonist. Studies using
35S-methionine to monitor the synthesis of CG revealed
that GnRH stimulated synthesis of CG in addition to its
secretion. As it is possible that the (observed
stimulatory) effects could be due to GnRH of
hypothalamic origin acting on the placenta, it was felt
essential to examine whether GnRH is present in
placenta itself. Accordingly studies were initiated to
examine for the presence of GnRH in placenta and in
order to monitor the purification of GnRH from
placenta, a sensitive radioimmunoassay (RIA) was
developed3. Using this RIA, GnRH like material was
isolated and characterised as well as its biosynthesis was
demonstrated4. In view of the fact that the receptors for
GnRH in placenta were found to be of low affinity and
relatively high concentration of GnRH had to be used to
elicit a stimulatory effect on CG secretion, it was felt
essential to provide as much evidence as possible to
support the conclusion that GnRH has a role in the
regulation of CG. In view of this, attempts were made to
examine the involvement of calcium in mediating the
5
action of GnRH in placenta as calcium is known to be a
second messenger in GnRH stimulated pituitary LH
release. Studies on the role of calcium in GnRH
stimulated CG release revealed that in the absence of
calcium no stimulatory action could be observed5. The
requirement for calcium in CG secretion was also
established using a variety of calcium mobilisers and
blockers5. In addition, it was found that following
GnRH addition there was a time and dose-dependent
45Ca2 * uptake as well as mobilization, of calcium
(Sharma, S.C. and Jagannadha Rao, A; unpublished
observation). However, studies to evaluate the
involvement of protein kinase C in GnRH action
revealed that while basal secretion of CG involved
protein kinase C, GnRH action was independent of
protein kinase C。. In contrast, the use of calmodulin
inhibitors revealed that both basal secretion of CG as
well as GnRH mediated action involved calmodulin.
Attempts were also made to examine whether the
synthesis and secretion of CG is subject to modulation
by placental steroids. It is well known that the secretion
of pituitary LH is negatively modulated by gonadal
steroids. This conclusion has been arrived at by
evaluating the effect of gonadectomy or administration
of gonadal steroids on the levels of plasma or pituitary
LH levels. However, such an approach is not possible in
placenta as both CG and steroids are produced by the
same cell namely syncytiotrophoblast. Thus it is difficult
to study the effect of added steroids in the absence of
endogenous steroids which are present in high
concentrations. In order to overcome this problem, a
novel strategy was used to minimize the influence of
endogenous steroids. This was accomplished by use of
1, 4, 6 androstratene 3-17-dione to block the activity of
the aromatase, a key enzyme involved in the
biosynthesis of estradiol or tamoxifen to block the
action of estradiol or RU486, to block the action of
progesterone7. Also before the studies on the role of
estrogen was undertaken, the presence of specific
receptors for estradiol-17/3 was also demonstrated8. The
effect of addition of these compounds on synthesis and
secretion of CG was evaluated using three approaches
Trstly by using specific cDNA probes for alpha and beta
2G subunits to monitor the levels of specific mRNA by
dot blot hybridization and Northern blot, secondly by
isolating total RNA from placental minces incubated in
the presence or absence or together with the steroid or
antagonist and in vitro translation or RNA and
immunoprecipitation of the products followed by SDS6
,
PAGE and autoflurography. Finally, the levels of
immunoreactive CG in the medium and tissue were
monitored by solid phase RIA after incubating the tissue
with steroids or its antagonists. These studies revealed
that following decrease in the levels of estradiol or
progesterone, there was a significant increase in the
levels of alpha and beta CG mRNA, as judged by dot
blot hybridization. Northern blot and translation of
RNA as well as immunoreactive CG levels. These results
suggest that during early pregnancy CG is subject to
negative modulation by the placental steroids namely
estrogen and progesterone /Sharma, S.C., Prakash, P.
and Jagannadha Rao, A; unpublished observation).
In vivo Studies
In order to support the conclusion drawn regarding
the positive modulation of CG by GnRH in placenta,
in vivo studies were carried out using pregnant monkey
as a model. As a first step towards this, a sensitive RIA
for quantitation of monkey CG and detecting pregnancy
was developed10. This was subsequently modified to a
solid phase assay11 and finally into a sensitive and quick
micro ELISA12?13. Using these assays the CG levels
during early pregnancy in the bonnet monkey were
determined. In view of the reports that bonnet monkey is
not responsive to GnRH administration, it was essential
to verify this as well as to choose the most potent
analogue of GnRH for use in pregnant monkeys as
studies with pregnant monkeys are time consuming and
expensive. In order to choose the right analogue of
GnRH to be tested in the monkey during pregnancy, a
male monkey model was developed for determining the
potency of the GnRH agonists and antagonists14-16. The
method consisted of injection of GnRH or its analogues
by intravenous route to adult male monkeys and
determining the serum testosterone levels in blood
samples collected 2 h after injection. This method is
simple, quick, requires only determination of serum
testosterone and the monkeys could be reused after a few
days of rest. Using this model it was found that of the
variety of analogues tested, Buserelin was the most
potent one in the male monkey. Administration of
Buserelin to pregnant monkeys resulted in a significant
increase in serum CG ♦levels and chronic administration
resulted in maintenance of elevated levels of CG upto
48 h following chronic infusion, indicating that CG is
regulated by GnRHl7^,K. Also administration of GnRH
antiserum resulted in a decrease in serum CG levels.
These results obtained using in vitro and in vivo models
together permit to conclude that the synthesis and
secretion of CG is subject to positive modulation by
GnRH and negative modulation by placental steroids.
Indian bonnet monkey (Macaca radiata). J Reprod Fertil 70:
449. 1984.
11.
Chakraborti, R., Sathyanarayana Murthy. G. and
Jagannadha Rao, A. A solid phase radioimmunoassay for
detection of early pregnancy in the South Indian bonnet
monkey (Macaca radiata). J Biosci 7: 145, 1985.
12.
Chakraborti. R. and Jagannadha Rao. A. An avidin-biotin
microenzyme immunoassay for monkey chorionic
gonadotropin. J Reprod Fertil 80: 151, 1987.
13.
Jagannadha Rao. A. and Chakraborti, R. Studies on non
specific interference due to serum in the avidin-biotin micro
ELISA for monkey chorionic gonadotropin and a method for
its elimination. J Immuno! Methods 125: 261, 1989.
14.
Jagannadha Rao, A., Chakraborti, R.. Kotagi. S.G.,
Ravindranath, N. and Moudgal N.R. Effect of LHRH
agonists and antagonists in male and female bonnet monkeys
(Macaca radiata). J Steroid Biochem 23: 807. 1985.
References:
I.
Mathialagan, N. and Jagannadha Rao, A. Gonadotropin
releasing hormone stimulates both release and synthesis of
human chorionic gonadotropin by first trimester human
placental minces in vitro. Biochem Int 13: 757. 1986.
2.
Jagannadha Rao, A. and Mathiaiagan, N. A possible role for
gonadotropin releasing hormone in regulation of chorionic
gonadotropin secretion by primate placenta. Proc 17th Ann
Meeting Endo Soc India Eds. C.P. Puri and T.C. Anand
Kumar, Endocrine Society of India p41-49, 1986.
3.
Mathialagan, N. and Jagannadha Roa, A. Plasma levels of
gonadotropin releasing hormone during menstrual cycle of
Macaca radiata. J Biosci 10: 423, 1986
4.
Mathialagan, N. and Jagannadha Rao. A. Gonadotropin
releasing hormone in first trimesier human placenta:
Isolation, partial characterisation and in vitro biosynthesis. J
Biosci 10: 429, 1986.
15.
Jagannadha Rao. A., Keri. G., Kotagi, S.G.. Chakraborti, R..
Shanmugavelu, B. and Ravindranath, N. Use of adult male
bonnet monkeys (Macaca radiata) for testing the biological
activity of GnRH and its analogues. Andrologia 23:79. 1991.
5.
Mathialagan, N. and Jagannadha Rao, A. A role for calcium
in gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) stimulated
secretion of chorionic gonadotropin by first trimester human
placental minces in vitro. Placenta 10: 61, 1989.
16.
6.
Sharma, S.C. and Jagannadha Rao, A. Role of protein kinase
C and calmodulin in GnRH stimulated hCG secretion by first
trimester human placenta. In: Perspectives in Primate
Reproductive Biology. Eds. N.R. Moudgal; K. Yoshinaga:
A.J. Rao and P.R. Adiga. Wiley Eastern Lid, Delhi p.93,
1991.
Jagannadha Rao, A.. Chakraborti. R., Kotagi, S.G. and
Ravindranath, N. Effect of constant infusion of GnRH
agonist Buserelin and antagonist CDB 2085A using osmotic
minipumps on testicular function in adult male bonnet
monkeys (Macaca radiata). Andrologia 22: 567, 1990.
17.
Jagannadha Rao, A. and Moudgal. N.R. Effect of LHRH
injection on serum chorionic gonadotropin levels in pregnant
bonnet monkey (Macaca radiata). IRCS Med Sci 12: 1105,
1984.
18.
Jagannadha Rao, A. and Chakraborti. R. Effect of acute and
chronic administration of GnRH agonist Buserelin on serum
chorionic gonadotropin, progesterone and estradiol-170
levels during early pregnancy in South Indian bonnet monkey
(Macaca radiata). Animal Reprod $ci 22: 261, 1990.
7.
Sharma, S.C., Kumari, U., Dighe, R.R. and Jagannadha
Rao, A. Regulation of protein synthesis in the first trimester
human placenta by l7/?-estradioland progesterone. Placenta,
11:63, 1990.
8.
Jagannadha Rao, A. and Sharma, S.C. Demonstration of
estrogen receptors in the first trimester human placenta
(FTAO) and effect of Tamoxifen (TMX) on the synthesis and
secretion of placental protein. Proc End Soc (USA) 70:
Abstract 594, 1988.
9.
10.
Purohit, P., Sharma, S.C. and Jagannadha Rao, A. Regula
tion of synthesis and secretion of chorionic gonadotropin in
first trimester human placenta by estradiol 17/3. Proc Soc
Study Reprod 40: Abstract 220 1990.
Jagannadha Rao. A.、Kotagi,S.G. and Moudgal. N.R. Serum
concentration of chorionic gonadotropin, estradiol-17^ and
progesterone levels during early pregnancy in the Souih
This write up is based on the Smt. Swaran Kanta Dingley Award
(1990) Oration (of ICMR) delivered by Dr. A. Jagannadha Rao on
December 31, 1991 at the ICMR. New Delhi, as part of the 80th
Anniversary celebrations of the Council.
「he author acknowledges the financial assistance from Family
Planning Foundation, Department of Science and Technology,
Department of Biotechnology, Indian Council of Medical Research,
New Delhi and Rockefeller Foundation, New York.
7
80TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS OF ICMR
The Indian Council of Medical Research
ompleted 80 years of its existence in November 1991.
To mark the occasion, the Council and its permanent
Institutes/Centres located in different parts of India
have planned various scientific programmes spread over
a year (ie till November 1992) with the aim of
disseminating to scientists and the common men, the
various contributions of ICMR. The inaugural event of
the celebrations was held at the ICMR Headquarters on
November 15, 1991. A special issue of the ICMR
Bulletin was also broughtout by the ICMR
Headquarters listing important milestones in the history
of ICMR. In addition, several ICMR Institutes/Centres
located in different states organized events like
exhibitions, open days, seminars, symposia, public
lectures etc. on this occasion. Other events proposed by
the ICMR Headquartersand various Institutes/Centres
during the year include the following:
,
Organization of symposia, seminars, exhibitions
on the contributions of ICMR.
•
Publication of pamphlets/ booklets highlighting
the major contributions of various Institutes/
Centres for wide distribution to the media, public
and others.
♦
Organization of open houses for the public as well
as the media.
•
Screening of audio-visual programmes (films, slide
tapes etc.) and display of posters, panels.
•
Display, distribution and sale of ICMR
publications from the ICMR Headquarters as well
as Institutes/Centres at discount rates throughout
the year.
The various events held by ICMR Headquarters
and some of its Institutes/Centres are highlighted here:-
Inauguration of ICMR*s 80th Anniversary celebrations by the
Director-General.
In the inaugural event of the year-long celebrations
held at the ICMR Headquarters, New Delhi on
November 15, 1991 lecture and panel discussion were
organized on AIDS. Dr. S.P. Tripathy, DirectorGeneral, ICMR, inaugurated the celebrations and also
presided over the function. Professor A.N. Malaviya,
Head, Department of Medicine, All India Institute of
Medical Sciences, New Delhi, gave the inaugural lecture
in which he highlighted the activities undertaken in
India and the role of ICMR in AIDS surveillance and
control activities at a time when not a single person from
India had been found infected (though AIDS had been
recogftised as a major health hazard in many parts<of the
world)
8
The inaugural lecture was followed by a panel
discussion on the same topic in which many eminent
scientists took part. The panel discussion was
moderated by Prof. V.I. Mathan, Christian Medical
College (CMC), Vellore. The topics presented were
diverse, ranging from entry of AIDS in India to its
clinical management. Dr. Shiv Lal of the DirectorateGeneral of Health Services gave a detailed account of
the National AIDS Control Programme of the
Government of India, while Dr. T. Jacob John, CMC,
Vellore, outlined the problem of AIDS in Tamil Nadu
and Dr. Gita Bhave, Seth G.S. Medical College,
Bombay, gave a comprehensive picture of the problem
in Maharashtra. Prof. V.I. Mathan, CMC, Vellore
discussed the hospital policies in the management of
AIDS and Dr. P. Ramachandran, Dy. DirectorGeneral, ICMR focussed on AIDS in women and
children. In the concluding presentation, Prof. A.N.
Malaviya outlined the trends in the clinical management
of AIDS. There was lively discussion after each
presentation which made the panel discussion
informative, educative and thought-provoking.
The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN),
Hyderabad organized an *open day' on November 15,
1991. Peoples from all walks of life including
housewives, retired persons, students, journalists and
others visited the Institute on the occasion. A novel
approach to nutrition education in the form of a street
play (Veedhinaatakam) was organized on the
picturesque lawns of the Institute which drew
spontaneous applause from the large gathering. The
media (including the Press, All India Radio and
Doordarshan) covered the event. In addition, a series of
video films on various nutritional subjects were
screened for the visitors. Scientists of the Institute also
delivered popular scientific lectures which elicited very
good response from the audience in the form of queries
Other Events held at the ICMR Headquarters
Dr. A. Jagannadha Rao, Professor, Department of
Biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore,
delivered the Smt. Swaran Kanta Dingley Oration
(1990) of ICMR on ^Regulation of Chorionic
Gonadotropin in Human Placentaw on December 31,
1991.
Ms K. Jayant, Scientific Officer, *SF\ Cancer
Research Institute, Tata Memorial Centre, Bombay,
delivered the Sandoz Oration (1990) of ICMR* on
"Epidemiological Studies with Implications for Cancer
Control Programme**, on January 13, 1992.
A panel discussion was also organized on "Cancer
Research as Related to Cancer ControF'on January 13,
1992. Dr. Usha K. Luthra, Addl. Director-General,
ICMR, chaired this session and also gave an overview of
the topic. Broadly, the topics covered under the panel
discussion included Cancer registration in India; Basic
research as related to cancer control, Control of oral
cancer, Tobacco economics, Control of cervical cancer,
Management of cancer (surgery, radiotherapy,
chemotherapy, pain relief), Implementation of research
results in cancer control, and Role of non-governmental
organizations in research for cancer control.
Street play (Veedhinatakam) for nutrition education organized at
NIN, Hyderabad.
The Tuberculosis Research Centre (TRC), Madras,
organized various events including an exhibition on
tuberculosis on November 15-16, 1991. The exhibition
was inaugurated by Commissioner and Secretary for
Health, Government of Tamil Nadu. The exhibits
included multicoloured posters, charts, photopanels,
apart from x-ray photographs on tuberculosis, fixed
specimens of organs affected with the disease etc. A free
health check-up camp was also arranged for the visitors.
A puppet show on tuberculosis organized by the Centre
on November 15th attracted considerable attention.
Both the exhibition and the. puppet show were attended
by a very large number of visitors who represented
diverse groups of community like students from various,
Colleges, Institutes and University, laymen as also active
and retired research scientists from various Institutes.
Both these " events were recorded by Madras*
9
Doordarshan and subsequently telecast on November
16, 1991. Prior to the organization of the celebration, a
press conference was also convened by the Director,
TRC, Madras, on November 13, 1991, to highlight the
research activities of the Centre over the last 35 years
which received a very wide coverage in local as well as
national dailies
The Institute for Research in Reproduction (IRR),
Bombay, organized a workshop on "Techniques in Cell
Biology" between November 11-29, 1991, to mark the
80th Anniversary celebration of the. Council. Dr. S.K.
Mahajan, Head, Molecular Biology and Agriculture
Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Bombay,
inaugurated the workshop. Some of the topics covered
in the workshop included ELISA for fixed cells, cell
separation by Percoll density gradient, in vitrc
fertilization, immu no-fluorescent studies witn
spermatozoa, hybridoma, flow cytometry, immunoblot,
autoradiography for receptor localization, vaginal
cytology, pap smear staining etc. Faculty members, in
the workshop were drawn from IRR, Bombay and
various other Institutions including Bhabha Atomic
Research Centre, Indian Institute of Technology, Jaslok
Hospital, Sofia College of Bombay as well as Poona
University, Pune.
Puppet show for health education organized at TRC, Madras.
The Vector Control Research Centre (VCRC),
Pondicherry, organized a "people's forum" on
November 15, 1991 which was inaugurated by Shri P.
Ananda Bhaskaran, Hon'ble Minister of Health &
Family Welfare, Government of Pondicherry. The
forum was attended by a large number of visitors who
actively participated in the discussion. The role of the
community in reducing mosquitogenic conditions was
highlighted. The entire function was covered by the local
Demonstration of laboratory techniques at the workshop on
Techniques in cell biology organized by IRR, Bombay.
The Central Jalma Institute for Leprosy, Agra,
organized a two day workshop for officers of Leprosy
Training Centres in India, in collaboration with the
Directcrate-General of Health Services, between
November 15-16, 1991 to mark the 80th Anniversary
celebration of the Council. The deliberations of the
workshop were conducted in three groups relating to
three different issues viz. training of medical officers in
relevance to National Leprosy Eradication Programme;
training of paramedical workers and nom-medical
supervisors, and issues related to training of other
categories of personnel engaged in the Programme.
People's forum organized by VCRC, Pondicherry.
press media and the Pondicherry station of the All India
Radio broadcast a 15 minute coverage of the function on
November 17, 1991.
10
The Institute of Pathology, New Delhi, organized
an exhibition featuring display of charts, posters,
photographs etc. on various diseases such as leprosy,
vitiligo, AIDS etc. Posters, charts depicting various
activities /programmes of the Institute were also
displayed. The exhibits evoked good response from the
visitors. Apart from this, display and sale of ICMR
publications was also arranged.
The Regional Medical Research Centre for Tribal
Health, Jabalpur, organized an exhibition featuring
display/demonstration of posters, charts, photographs
etc highlighting the Centres research activities and also
for health education of the general public regarding
various health problems prevalent in the region. The
exhibition was inaugurated by Shri Shravan Patel,
HonTjle Member of Parliament. The local media
organised a wide and sustained publicity campaign for
the exhibition, and approximately 3000 persons from all
over the city visited the exhibition. A free health check
up camp was also arranged for the benefit of the general
public, in the form of general medical examination as
also blood test and ECG examination. The event
received highly encouraging feedback and there were
requests from eminent personalities to organize similar
events in other cities and even in villages of the State.
Scientific programmes/ activities of the Centre were
outlined on November 16, 1991 in another seminar and
open house organized by the scientists of the Centre.
The ICMR Genetic Research Centre, (GRC) Bom
bay, organized an 'open house' on November 15,1991 to
make the public aware of the various genetic disorders
prevalent in India, their prevention as well as treatment.
Posters and charts on various genetic disorders were
displayed and demonstration of various laboratory
techniques was done on this occasion. The function was
well attended by doctors, scientists, social workers,
psychologists and general public.
The National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune,
arranged 3 scientific lectures for the staff of NIV and
visitors on November 15,1991 on (i) KFD: an ecological
imperative; (ii) The problem of prostitution in Pune; and
(iii) counselling of HIV seropositive persons.
The Institute of Immunohaematology, Bombay,
organized 'open houses" for the public on November 14
and 19, 1991 during which visitors were taken around
View of exhibitions organized at RMRC, Jabalpur and GRC, Bombay.
The Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC),
Bhubaneswar, celebrated the 80th Anniversary of
ICMR on November 15-16,1991 which was inaugurated
by Dr. Prasanna Patsani, Hon*ble Minister for Public
Grievance, Pension and Administration, Orissa
Government. The inaugural ceremony was followed by
a scientific symposium on "An intersectorial approach
to health care delivery in Orissa—Integrated approach
concepts. Participants of the workshop included
representatives/scientists from the RMRC
Bhubaneswar, local Medical College, UNICEF, British
Council, State department of Health & Family Welfare
etc.
different departments and informed regarding various
activities of the Institute by the scientists. The visitors
could get first hand knowledge regarding various
research activities and diseases with particular reference
to gene rearrangements in diseases, AIDS, red cell
serology, autoimmune disorders, complement,
population genetics etc.
The Institute for Research in Medical Statistics,
Madras, is organizing a series of lectures to illustrate the
role of statistical methods in medicine and public health.
The first lecture of the series was held on November 15,
1991 for students from various local educational
institutions.
11
ABSTRACTS
Some Research Projects Completed Recently
Glucocorticoid receptors in bronchoalveolar cells in
sarcoidosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and their
relevance to steroid therapy
Analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF)
was done in 25 patients with sarcoidosis and 12 patients
with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (before and after
therapy with p.ednisolone) and 20 normal healthy
subjects (control) to study the glucocorticoid receptor
(GR) content in bronchoalveolar lavage cells and the
relation (if any) between the receptor content and
clinical efficacy of glucocorticoid therapy. Patients on
corticosteroids pripr to the study were excluded. The
parameters studied in BALF included per cent fluid
recovered, total and differential cell counts and GR
estimation using 3(H) triamcinolone acetonide.
Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF)
as well as sarcoidosis had significantly higher
pretreatment total cell count in BALF as compared to
normal healthy volunteers, but the fluid recovery was
significantly higher in sarcoidosis patients only. Though
patients with IPF had significantly higher lymphocytes
(%) as compared to healthy volunteers, the levels were
significantly lower than those in sarcoidosis patients.
Polymorphs and eosinophils in patients with IPF were
significantly higher as compared to sarcoidosis patients
and controls. GR contents in BAL cells were
significantly higher in patients with sarcoidosis as
compared to patients with IPF and control subjects. A
significantly negative correlation was found between
lymphocytes and alveolar macrophages in sarcoidosis
patients. Both sarcoidosis and IPF patients showed a
significantly positive correlation between carbon
monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) and forced vital
capacity (FVC).
Seven patients with sarcoidosis had frequent
relapses and the pretreatment lymphocytes, GR
contents and FVC of these patients were significantly
lower as compared to the patieiits who did not have
frequent relapses.
Prednisolone treatment of sarcoidosis patients
resulted in a significant fall in total cell count,
lymphocytes (%), neutrophils (%), and GR content of
BAL cells and in a significant increase in FVC and
DLCO. Eight of 12 patients with IPF deteriorated
despite treatment with prednisolone. Pretreatmem
12
lymphocytes (%) andtiR content of these patients were
lower, but the polymorphs and eosinophils were higher
as compared to responders. Prednisolone treatment
resulted in a significant fall in the BALF total cell count,
and GR content in IPF patients.
S.K.. Sharma
Department of Medicine
All India Institute of
Medical Sciences
New Delhi.
Publications:
1.
Sharma, S.K., Verma, U., Pande, J.N., Murugesan, K.,
Verma, K. and Guleria, J.S. Glucocorticoid receptors in
bronchoalveolar cells in sarcoidosis. A preliminary report.
Chest 93: 577, 1988.
2.
Sharma, S.K., Rao, D.N., Pande, J.N. and Guleria, J.S.
Serum angiotensin*converting enzyme activity in sarcoidosis.
Indian J Med Res 85: 638, 1987.
3.
Sharma, S.K., Pandc, J.N. and Verma, K. Bronchoalveolar
lavage (BAL) in miliary tuberculosis. Tubercle 69: 175, 1988.
4.
Sharma, S.K., Pande, J.N. and Verma, K. Bronchoalveolar
lavage (BAL) in miliary tuberculosis. Respr Digest 4:3, 1989.
5.
Sharma, S.K., Pande, J.N., Verma, K. and Guleria, J.S.
Interrelationship between bronchoalveolar lavage cellular
constituents and pulmonary functions in sarcoidosis. Indian J
Chest Dis All Sci 31: 77, 1989.
6.
Sharma, S.K. Glucocorticoid receptors in bronchoalveolar
cells from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
(Abstract). Am Rev Respir Dis 135: A3O7, 1987.
7.
Sharma, S.K., Vcnna, K. and Pande, J.N. Interrelationship
between bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cellular constituents
and pulmonary function tests in patients with silicosis
(Abstract). Am Rev Respir Dis 139: A549, 1989.
8.
Sharma, S.K., Pande, J.N., Verma, K. and Guleria, J.S.
Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) analysis in intersHtial
lung disease: A 7-year experience. Indian J Chest Dis All
31: 187, 1989.
Identification and purification of antigens of diagnostic
and protective potentials from leishmania parasite
The study was carried out for development of
specific immunodiagnostic test for leishmaniasis and
identification of antigens involved in immunoprotection
in experimental leishmaniasis.
Leishmania donovani promastigotes maintained in
NNN medium were cultivated on a large scale at 26°Cin
Leibovitz L-15 medium supplemented with 10 per cent
tryptose phosphate broth, 0.1 per cent gentamycin and
10 per cent foetal calf serum. Amastigotes were isolated
from heavily infected spleen of male golden hamster
with more than two months infection and a count of
more than 100 amastigotes per 100 spleen cell nuclei.
Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and
immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) test were employed
using antigens from L. donovani promastigotes and
amastigotes. ELISA carried out with the promastigote
soluble antigens revealed elevated values in
leishmaniasis patients (confirmed by bone marrow
biopsy or on the basis of clinical findings) as compared
to contacts of patients of endemic areas and non
endemic healthy controls. However, the contacts
showed slightly higher ELISA values as compared to
non-endemic controls but values remained within the
normal range.
Though the ELISA values of sera from patients of
malaria, filariasis, tuberculosis, amoebiasis and leprosy
were slightly higher than those for sera from non
endemic controls, they were lower than the values for
endemic controls and far lower than the lowest level
among kala-azar patients. This confirmed that there was
no cross reactivity with amoebiasis, malaria, filariasis,
tuberculosis or leprosy.
IFA test was positive in all clinically and
parasitologically diagnosed patients of kala-azar.
Amastigote antigen proved to be better than
promastigote antigen and was able to differentiate
between endemic and non-endemic controls. None of
the sera from non-endemic controls and from cases of
malaria, filariasis, amoebiasis or tuberculosis showed a
detectable titre.
A study on immune status was conducted in
hamsters to identify the antigens of L. donovani having
protective potentials, during the course of infection
using macrophage migration area (MMA) and delayed
hypersensitivity response to sheep red blood cells as
parameters for cell mediated immune response and
plaque forming cell count and haemagglutinating
antibody titre as parameter for hormonal response. A
progressive suppression in. all the parameters was
observed when monitored from day 7 onwards to day
45. MMA appeared to be the most sensitive as it was
affected as early as 7 days post-infection.
Amita Chaudhry
K.C. Saxena
Division of Biochemistry
Central Drug Research Institute
Lucknow.
Publication:
Chaudhry, A., Guru, P.Y., Saxena, R.P., Tandon； A. and Saxena,
K.C. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in the diagnosis of kalaazar in Bhadohi (Varanasi), India. Trans R Soc Trap Med Hyg 84
363, 1990.
Effect of antibodies to glycolipids on the morphology
and physiology of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
The study was carried out to examine the
mechanism of inhibitory action of antibodies to
glycolipids on Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37RV.
M. tuberculosis H37RV were grown on modified
Youman's medium, cells were harvested in their lag
phase, glycolipid antigens isolated and rabbits were
injected weekly with mapnoside-M BS A complexes for 3
weeks.
Immunisation of rabbits with mannoside-MBSA
complexes resulted in production of specific antibodies
as checked by gel diffusion, counter current
immunoelectrophoresis and kaolin agglutination tests.
Antibodies to mannosides of mycobacteria when
supplemented into growth medium, inhibited the
growth of M. tuberculosis H37RV as indicated by the
prolonged lag phase of tubercle bacilli. There was a
decreased biosynthesis of different macromolecules viz.
DNA, RNA, proteins and phospholipids (maximum
inhibition being in DN A biosynthesis) of
M. tuberculosis H37RV in the presence of
decomplemented (by heating at 46° C for 30 minutes)
and decompleted lysozyme free (by absorption with
bentonite particles) antisera to mannosides, as studied
by incorporation of radioactive precursors into their
respective macromolecules. Among individual
phospholipids, the maximum inhibition of cardiolipin
biosynthesis was observed with decomplemented
antiserum, while decomplemented lysozyme free
antiserum inhibited mannoside biosynthesis. Antisefum
to sulpholipids and cord factors also inhibited the
macromolecules biosynthesis as evidenced by decreased
13
incorporation of labelled precursors in the presence of
antibodies.
Pre-incubation of tubercle bacilli with mannosides
antibodies for 90 minutes did not alter the virulence of
M. Tuberculosis H37RV when tested in mice and
examined by using various parameters to monitor the
extent of infection. This bacteriostatic action of
mannoside antibodies seems to be through their direct
interaction with cell surface receptors which was
documented by the specific binding of affinity purified
antibodies to mannosides with the cell surface receptors
of M. tuberculosis H37RV.
G.K. Khuller
Department of Biochemistry
Postgraduate Institute of
Medical Education and Research
Chandigarh.
Publications
Mehta. P.K. and Khuller, G.K. Suppression of macromolecular
biosynthesis in M. Tuberculosis H”Rv by antimannophosphoinositides. FEMS Microbiol Lett 51: 61, 1988.
COUNCILS TRAINING PROGRAMMES FOR 1992-93
Leprosy
Nutrition
At the Central Jalma Institute for Leprosy, Agra:
At the National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad:
...
Multidrug Therapy for Leprosy: Orientation
Courses for Medical Officers (January 27 to
February 7; March 9 to 20; August 17 to 28; and
September 14 to 25, 1992).
...
M.Sc. in Applied Nutrition (June I. 1992 to
February 28, 1993).
...
Annual Certificate Course in Nutrition (December
1. 1992 to February 28, 1993).
Virology
At the National Institute of Virology, Pune:
...
Workshop on Counselling for HIV (February 10 to
12, 1992).
...
Diploma in Medical Virology (June 1992 to May
1993).
Occupational Health
At the National Institute of Occupational Health,
Ahmedabad:
...'Training Course on Environmental and Industrial
Hygiene Practice (December 3 to 9, 1992).
...
Reproductive Biology
At the Institutefor Research in Reproduction, Bombay:
...
...
...
Training Course in Techniques for Isolation,
Detection and Analysis of Proteins (October
1992).
Training Course in Immunological Techniques
with special reference to Hybndoma (December
1992)
Training Course in Development of Non-isotopic
Immunoassays (January 1993).
Endocrinology
Orientation Course on Occupational Health for
Industrial Medical Officers (December 14 to 19,
1992).
Haematology
At the Institute of Immunohaematology, Bombay:
...
Training Course in Blood Group Serology and
Blood Bank Methodology for Medical Officers
(August 11 to October 10, 1992).
...
Training Course in Blood Group Serology and
Blood Bank Methodology for Technicians (August
11 to September 10, 1992).
...
Training Course in Advanced Immunohaemato
logy (September 21 to October 10, 1992).
Cytology
At 1 he National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad:
At the Institute of Cytology and Preventive Oncology,
New Delhi:
...
...
14
Annual Training Course on Endocrinological
Techniques and their Application (August/
September, 1992).
Workshop on Oligo DNA Synthesis and
Polymerase Chain Reaction (January / February,
1992).
Laboratory Animal Technology
Medical Entomology
At the Sector Control Research Centre, Pondicherry:
...
M.Sc. in Medical Entomology (From July, 1992
for two years).
Ginical Pharmacology
At the Laboratory Animal Information Service Centre,
National Institute of Nutrition, Hyderabad:
...
Training Course for Laboratory Animal
Technicians (June 1 to July 15, 1992).
...
Training Course for Laboratory Animal
Supervisors (September I to November 30. 1992).
At the Seth G.S. Medical College, Bombay:
...
Training Course in Clinical Pharmacology
(March/April, 1991).
ICMR NEWS
The 50th meeting of the Scientific Advisory Board
of the ICMR was held on January 7-8, 1992, at the
ICMR Headquarters, New Delhi.
A meeting of the Directors of Permanent
Institutes/Centres of the ICMR was held on January 9,
1992, at the ICMR Headquarters, New Delhi.
Other Meetings of the Council, held during the Month:
Meeting of the second
January 17, 1992
Review Committee on studies
(at New Delhi)
related to the Bhopal Gas Disaster.
Meeting on Schedule of
Formulation and Manufacturing
of Traditional Remedies
for Clinical Trials.
January 27, 1992
(at New Delhi)
Participation of ICMR Scientists in Scientific Events:
Dr. G.V. Satyavati, Senior Dy. Director-General,
ICMR, participated in the first Group Monitoring
Workshop on Immunology and Medical Biology of the
Department of Science & Technology (January 22-23,
1992), followed by meeting of the Project Advisory
Committee on the same subject (January 24, 1992) held
at the National Institute of Oceanography, Goa.
Dr. Usha K. Luthra, Addl. Director-General,
ICMR, participated in the fifth National Cancer
Congress and delivered a talk on "Cancer Control" at
Madras (January 22-25, 1992).
Appointment of Directors of ICMR Institutes/Centres:
The following scientists of ICMR have taken over
as Directors of the respective Institutes/Centres of the
Council, as indicated below:Dr. K.A.V.R. Krishnamachari, Regional Medical
Research Centre, Bhubaneswar.
Dr. R. Reuben, Centre for Research in Medical
Entomology, Madurai.
Dr. V. Dhanda, Vector Control Research Centre,
Pondicherry.
Dr. Bhanu Iyengar, Institute of Pathology, New Delhi"
Dr. K. Satyanarayana, Regional Medical Research
Centre, Dibrugarh.
Honours/A wards
Dr. Usha K. Luthra, Addl. Director-General,
ICMR and Dr. V.P. Sharma, Director, Malaria
Research Centre, Delhi, have been awarded "Padma
Shree" by the Government of India for 1992.
Dr. V.P. Bharadwaj, Deputy Director and Officerin-charge, Central Jalma Institute for Leprosy, Agra,
has been elected First Vice-President of the Indian
Association of Leprologist for a period of two years
(1992-1993).
SOME AVAILABLE ICMR PUBLICATIONS
Price
Rs.
Nutritive Value of Indian Foods (1971), Reprinted 1985, by C. Gopalan,
B.V. Ramasastri and S.C. Balasubramaniam, Revised and Updated (1989),
by B.S. Narasinga Rao, K.C. Pant and Y.G. Deosthale
18.00
15
Growth & Physical Development of Indian Infants and Children (1972), Reprinted 1989
10.00
Studies on Weaning & Supplementary Foods (1974), Reprinted 1984
6.00
Studies on Pre-School Children (1974), Reprinted 1984
6.00
A Manual of Nutrition (1973), Second Edition 1974, Reprinted 1990
4.50
Low Cost Nutritious Supplements (1972), Second Edition 1975, Reprinted 1990
3.00
Menus for Low Cost Balanced Diets and School Lunch Programmes Suitable for North India
(1959), Third Edition 1977, Reprinted 1984
2.00
Some Common Indian Recipes and their Nutritive Value (1964), Fourth Edition 1977,
Reprinted 1991, by Swaran Pasricha and L.M. Rebello
10.00
Japanese Encephalitis in India (Revised Edition) 1980
5.00
Some Therapeutic Diets (1969), Fourth Edition 1981, Reprinted 1983, Revised 1988,
by Swaran Pasricha
4.00
Nutrient Requirements and Recommended Dietary Allowances for Indians (1990)
11.50
Lathyrism: A Preventable Paralysis (Revised Edition) 1983
1.50
A Manual of Laboratory Techniques (1983), Edited by N. Raghuramulu, K. Madhavan Nair
and S. Kalyanasundaram
30.00
Fruits (1983), by Indira Gopalan and M. Mohan Ram
6.00
Count What You Eat (1989), by Swaran Pasricha
5.50
Diet and Diabetes (1991), by T.C. Raghuram, Swaran Pasricha and R.D. Shanna
15.00
* Depressive Disease (1986), by A. Venkoba Rao
58.00
**The Anophelines of India (Revised Edition) 1984, by T. Ramachandra Rao
150.00
**Medicinal Plants of India, Vol.2 (1987)
136.00
• 10 per cent discount allowed to individuals.
25 per cent discount allowed to individuals.
These publications arc available on prepayment of cost by cheque or postal order (bank and postal charges will be extra) drawn in favour of the Directon
General, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi. Money orders are not acceptable. All correspondence in this regard should be addnssed to the Chief,
Division of Publication and Information, Indian Council of Medical Research, Post Box No.4508, Ansari N.gar, New Delhi*! 10029.
EDITORIAL BOARD
Chairman
Dr. S.P. Tripijthy
Director-General
Chief, Publications
Dr. G.V. Satyavati
Members
Dr. Usha K・ Luthra
Dr. Badri N. Saxena
Editor
Dr. N. Medappa
Printed and Published by Shri J.N. Mathur for the Indian Council of Medical Research,
New Delhi at the 1CMR Offset Press, New Delhi
R.N. 21813/7L
Position: 4454 (2 views)